7 ways prenatal yoga empowerment works: My VBAC Birth Story Part 2

I shared the story of my caesarian birth in my previous post, as well as the importance of prenatal yoga and continuous labor support for birthing women. Part of my personal mission is to teach these empowering yoga practices and spread knowledge applicable during pregnancy, labor, and throughout a woman’s life.

Our sons were born six and a half years apart. My particular physical and psychological recovery from caesarian surgery was difficult (another post for another day). When I became pregnant again, I conducted research about birth choices, caesarian births, and if I could safely experience a vaginal delivery after a caesarian. My background includes college teaching, writing, and publishing.

I find it somewhat ironic in retrospect that this academically oriented pregnant woman simply accepted the brochures and hospital issued materials about pregnancy and childbirth.

Labor #2

My second childbirth journey started at approximately 1:00 AM with mild contractions.

I actually could sleep between the surges, and did not experience the unrelenting back labor of my first son’s birth.

At 5 AM, (while dreaming of a marching band performing on our Tucson road), my water broke; I called it the “big gusher”. My niece arrived to care for our first grader as my husband and I met the midwife at the Birth Center. I ultimately needed to check into the hospital because of meconium in my water. But, the midwife accompanied my husband and I to the hospital for continuous (trained) labor support.

I was having contractions the entire check-in time and breathing through them with my husband by my side. As documents and paperwork were completed, and my contractions became closer and stronger, I dilated to 9 cm. Even if I had wanted an epidural, it was too late!

Soon it was time to push.

Similar to baby 1, I pushed for 3 hours. My legs were shaking and exhausted. If I had been squatting regularly and doing prenatal standing poses, I believe I would not have been quite so fatigued in my legs.

Labor is like a marathon for some of us. You can physically prepare!

My husband encouraged me, the midwife coached me, and finally I asked-no, begged-that the physician be called for another opinion about my progress.

I had run out of steam.

I am blessed to say that this physician was fabulous. With the intervention of a vacuum extraction, my second son was born. He weighed well over NINE POUNDS! This baby never fit in his newborn diapers.

I’m inspired to share my knowledge and experience with you and facilitate a space to share with each other.

We cannot know how events will unfold in labor (and in life), but informed choices can help us navigate and cultivate empowerment as we face these occasions.

7 Ways Prenatal yoga practice helps pregnant women:

My son is as relaxed as a prenatal yoga student!

1. You will learn how to carry shifting body weight in proper alignment to help prevent lower back, pelvic, and shoulder soreness.
2. Legs are strengthened to carry weight and baby as well as for labor endurance.
3. Prenatal yoga strengthens and provides flexibility to the pelvic floor.
4. Tight and tense shoulders are relaxed.
5. You will cultivate back and core strength appropriate for pregnancy-and beyond.
6. You will practice breathing, anxiety management, mindfulness, and more. Women are provided the physical and mental preparation for childbirth-and beyond.
7. Additionally, a continuous knowledgeable labor supporter such as a doula or midwife can remind moms-to-be and their partners of choices in the midst of the challenges of the birth experience.

Student Testimonials

Serenity, Knowledge, Desire to Help Others

What impresses me from Bonnie after the first yoga class I took with her is her serenity, deep knowledge of...

2016-04-07T19:12:09+00:00

What impresses me from Bonnie after the first yoga class I took with her is her serenity, deep knowledge of the human body, the desire to help others to improve their mobility, bone strength and balance. Every time I take her class, I feel rejuvenated. I followed Bonnie from another yoga studio and she is one of the greater yoga teachers I have ever met.

Knowledge and skill

The knowledge and skill of a facilitator like Bonnie are essential. Her initiative and dedication to the learner are unsurpassed

Director, Organizational Development Tucson

2014-12-26T21:11:30+00:00

Director, Organizational Development Tucson

The knowledge and skill of a facilitator like Bonnie are essential. Her initiative and dedication to the learner are unsurpassed

http://www.yogawithbonnie.com/testimonials/knowledge-and-skill/

Great Pace

I admire that you ease everyone into each posture, instead of speeding through the lesson.

KK, beginner student

2014-12-26T21:12:41+00:00

KK, beginner student

I admire that you ease everyone into each posture, instead of speeding through the lesson.

http://www.yogawithbonnie.com/testimonials/great-pace/

I love Bonnie’s classes

I love Bonnie’s classes! Anything you need help with or if something feels out of line, she will help you....

Beginning Yoga Student

2014-12-26T21:13:38+00:00

Beginning Yoga Student

I love Bonnie’s classes! Anything you need help with or if something feels out of line, she will help you. She teaches you to become aware of your body and mind so you yourself can take her teachings and help yourself in the real world.

http://www.yogawithbonnie.com/testimonials/i-love-bonnies-classes/

Can’t say enough

I cant say enough about Bonnie. She guided every move in a fluid manner and simply said the name of...

Beginning Yoga Student

2014-12-26T21:14:20+00:00

Beginning Yoga Student

I cant say enough about Bonnie. She guided every move in a fluid manner and simply said the name of the position while we completed the move. It was a very calming, motivating, and a wonderful experience. I cant wait until next week! Thank you Bonnie for introducing me to yoga.